Is Washington safe?

How to save money at religious retreats; getting insurance for travel abroad.

By Donald D. Groff

Apr 22, 1999 | I am planning to go to Washington, D.C., for a convention and am worried about the safety and security -- should I be? Also, where can I get information on events happening while I'm there?

While crime has been an issue in the nation's capital, much of it is confined to areas off the tourist and conventioneer path, and you probably won't have any problems if you practice the same precautions recommended for any big city.

In other words, avoid making a target of yourself for those who prey on tourists. Don't wander alone into unlit or deserted areas, don't flash your cash or display expensive jewelry on the sidewalk and be alert to your surroundings.

Any convention city has stories about conventioneers who get pickpocketed or robbed because they staggered out of a club or restaurant for a lone walk back to their hotel, only to be confronted by an unofficial greeter.

You should also practice simple cautions in your hotel: Don't open the door unless you know who's there, lock your valuables in the hotel safe and keep track of your key.

Happily, most of your visit will be occupied with business and sightseeing. On the Washington Convention and Visitors Association Web site, you'll find plenty of suggestions for things to see and do in the capital, as well as a calendar of events. The phone number for the CVA is 202-789-7000.

Another excellent resource is the visitors guide offered on the Washington Post's Web site. By monitoring the Post, you can also get a feel for the local crime scene. Except for the occasional big political crime, you'll find it doesn't differ much from other large cities.

I've heard about staying at religious retreats -- quiet and inexpensive. Where can I find out about this type of lodging, both in the United States and abroad?

There are more than 100 monastic guest houses -- low-cost, simple accommodations in monasteries and other religious institutions -- in the United States. One of the most recently published directories is "A Guide to Monastic Guest Houses," by Robert Regalbuto, published by Morehouse Publishing Company (third edition, 1998). It's also available in stores or can be ordered from 800-877-0012.

Among similar guides are:

• "Sanctuaries the Complete United States: A Guide to Lodgings in Monasteries, Abbeys, and Retreats," by Jack and Marcia Kelly (Bell Tower, first edition, 1996).

• "U.S. and World Wide Guide to Retreat Center Guest Houses," by John and Mary Jensen (CTS Publications, 1997).

• "Overnight or Short Stay at Religious Houses Around the World," by Vicotria D. Hughes, is a directory to more than 2,200 houses in 63 countries. Contact Hugen Press, Box 2286, Bloomfield, N.J. 07003.

• "Bed and Blessings, Italy: A Guide to Convents and Monasteries Available for Overnight Lodging," by June and Anne Walsh (Paulist Press, 1999).

Despite their ancient roots, you can find some monastic guest houses on the Web. A company called DolceVita Travel books a number of them in Italy. The DolceVita Web site has descriptions of what it's like to stay in such accommodations.

Next Page: Where to find travel insurance and protective wear in case there's a hotel fire

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